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With his accident in the 2013 Dakar Rally, Krzysztof Holowczyc shocked the entire Monster Energy X-raid Team massively. But now, some two months later, the Pole is back behind the wheel of a Mini All4 Racing. Together with German co-driver Andreas Schulz he started at the Baja Italy (15th to 17th March, 2013), which started in Pordenone/Italy today (Friday).

For Holowczyc, the three day event with its approximately 350 special-stage kilometres represents a perfect opportunity for making his comeback in the cross-country rally sport, following his successful rehab.

Following the triumph in the Dakar Rally, the videos of the Monster Energy X-raid Team now also succeed in securing awards. At the OC ADDY Awards, the video ‘Presentation Krzysztof Holowczyc’ won gold in the category ‘Branded Content, 60 seconds and less’ (see below "Video <60 sec").

Silver went to ‘Team Presentation Dakar 2012’ in the category ‘Branded Content, over 60 seconds’. The OC Ad Federation (Orange Country Advertising) is part of the American Advertising Federation.

MR:: It’s just great that you will be back in the Mini such a short time after your accident. What was the reason for the short-notice decision to contest the Baja Italy?

Holowczyc:: My unfortunate accident made an end to my dreams of battling it out for a podium position. I raced a perfect car, was in great shape and really self-confident. But one short moment forced me into retirement.

Following a short check-up my doc now told me that I’m okay again. Furthermore, I’m close to having completed my rehab. Being back in the sport is extremely important for me, particularly for my mental recovery. Therefore, I opted for contesting the rally held on this weekend and am looking forward to go for it in the Baja Italy.

MR:: How did the rehab go?

Holowczyc:: From my former experiences I know that this rehab went far quicker than a previous one. Maybe because the fighting spirit of my body is that strong or because my body is younger than it says in my passport. I always tried to work as hard as possible to recover completely and as fast as possible. And during all my rehab exercises my heart always was behind the wheel of my MINI and my thoughts were out there on the tracks. I tried to give my very best to make it back into the cockpit as fast as possible.”

MR:: What are your goals for the season?

Holowczyc:: My main goal is to conquer the desert in the 2014 Dakar Rally. I want to demonstrate my skills and take the vehicle to the podium. But before trying to do so, I also want to race several other events. I will use them as tests for me and the 2014 Dakar – a rally I just can’t wait for.